Basic Electronics for Beginners in 20 Steps

Step 16: Wire

To connect components on a breadboard, you can use either components or wires.

Wires are great because they create connections without adding much resistance, which is ideal for flexibility. You can place components anywhere and later connect them with wires. This also allows you to link one part to multiple other parts.

For breadboarding, it’s best to use insulated 22awg (22 gauge) solid core wire. While Radioshack used to sell it, you can now use an alternative hookup wire available online. Typically, red wires represent power connections, and black ones indicate ground.

To use a wire, simply cut a piece to the needed length, strip about 1/4 inch of insulation from both ends, and use it to connect points on the breadboard.